The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore Value Guide

This 1880 edition of Thomas Moore's poetical works is a significant artifact of 19th-century American publishing, produced by the renowned P. F. Collier. It represents the enduring popularity of Moore's romantic and nationalistic Irish verses, such as his 'Irish Melodies', within the Victorian-era United States.

What Is The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore Worth?

The typical price range for The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore is $40 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the leather binding, specifically looking for signs of 'red rot' or detached spines common in 1880s books.
• The presence and clarity of all original internal illustrations and the absence of foxing on the paper.
• The completeness of the volume, ensuring no pages of the extensive collected works are missing.
• Provenance or unique markings, such as original owner signatures from the late 19th century, which can add historical interest.

How to Identify The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore?

• Verify the P. F. Collier publisher imprint and the 1880 publication date on the title page.
• Check for the presence of specific illustrated plates that were characteristic of Collier's subscription-based literary sets.
• Confirm the binding material is the original late-19th-century leather, often featuring decorative embossing or gilt lettering.
• Look for the inclusion of Moore's most famous works, including his biography of Lord Byron and various Irish lyrical compositions.

History of The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore (1779-1852) was a celebrated Irish poet, singer, songwriter, and entertainer, best known for his 'Irish Melodies' and his biography of Lord Byron. This particular edition, published by P. F. Collier, brought his extensive body of work to a wide American audience in the late 19th century, making his romantic and often nationalistic verses accessible to new generations of readers. P. F. Collier was a prominent American publisher known for producing subscription-based collected works, including many illustrated literary sets.